After our long mountain adventure in route to Reggio, we decided to return to Lucca via the Autostrada (Freeway). These following pictures show what one can find, in the middle of nowhere, in an Autogrill along the Freeway. (Think highway 5, Bakersfield, if you know California) It is essentially a gas station and food stop, yet sooooo much more. There is absolutely no equivalent to this experience in the US. (Nor many other countries.)
It is more like a mini mall, yet more. There are lots of snacks like we would find in our “gas stations”, there is a full restaurant with real food (not fast food), displays full of fresh made sandwiches often on bread baked onsite, pizzas, pastries, roasted veggies, fruit, the list goes on. Then there is the array of gift items to pick up on your way for whom ever you are visiting. Wines, cheeses, salami, chocolates, toys for the kids. Additionally, electric items in case a battery dies or you forgot your phone charger.
And you can take a shower! (Doccia above)
Once back in Lucca, we took a guided tour of the city with a friend who has recently become a tour guide. Diletta shared with us fun legends of Lucca, provided access to a beautiful private palace and a “secret church”. It was fascinating to see the city from her eyes with the history of buildings and architecture we would not otherwise have even noticed. The best part was she did the tour in Italian!
The next day, continuing with our love of wandering we set out on foot to explore the countryside just beyond the city center.
Loving "living" in Italy
Travel Adventures - Gary and Nancy 
After walking 5 days of the Via Francigena nella Toscana, my friend Deborah and I took that same tour with Diletta. We LOVED too!
LikeLike